When the Wolayita People's Democractic Front (WPDF) first surfaced in 1991, it allegedly advocated sovereignty, preservation of the customs and traditions of the Wolaita community, and the opening of WPDF offices in all regions where the Wolaita language is spoken (The Indian Ocean Newsletter 21 Sept. 1991). According to a 4 April 1994 Reuters report, however, the WPDF recently merged with four other parties to form the Ethiopian National Democratic Party (ENDP), headed by Pekanu Gedamu. The report states that the party supports liberal economic policies but opposes ethnic politics based on regional autonomy (ibid.).

Information on the history of the party and its executive members could not be found among the sources currently available to the DIRB.

This response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the DIRB within time constraints. This response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum.

The Indian Ocean Newsletter [Paris]. 21 September 1991. "Ethiopia: Emergence of Regional Ethnic Fronts."

Reuters. 4 April 1994. BC Cycle. "Ethiopian Parties Unite Against Ethnic Politics." (NEXIS)

The Indian Ocean Newsletter [Paris]. 21 September 1991. "Ethiopia: Emergence of Regional Ethnic Fronts."

Reuters. 4 April 1994. BC Cycle. "Ethiopian Parties Unite Against Ethnic Politics." (NEXIS)

Africa Confidential [London]. Weekly.

Africa Events [London]. Monthly.

Africa News [Durham, NC]. Bi-monthly.

Africa Report [New York]. Bi-monthly.

Africa Research Bulletin: Political Series [London]. Monthly.